Over the past decade, realizing the importance of body-safe sex toys has been a game-changer for me. However, my journey did not begin with this knowledge. Like many others, I initially purchased sex toys with apprehension and uncertainty, often relying on random Amazon reviews or browsing sites like Adam & Eve to find something suitable. Unfortunately, this resulted in me unknowingly purchasing toys made from materials like PVC and jelly, which emit strange smells and potentially harmful substances.
Reflecting on these experiences, I began to realize that the importance of body-safe materials goes beyond catering to those with sensitive skin. This is a fundamental aspect of everyone's sexual health. Fortunately, the landscape of quality sex toys and body-safe dildos has changed, becoming more accessible and affordable for all budgets. Safety and quality are no longer limited to a select few; now, it can be achieved by anyone who values their sexual health and pleasure.
Why is material safety important?
Material safety is critical when it comes to sex toys because these products are largely unregulated, leaving consumers vulnerable to potentially harmful materials. Two major issues are porosity and toxicity. Porous toys allow microorganisms such as bacteria, yeast, and fungi to penetrate at a cellular level, promoting growth, especially in moist, warm, and well-lit environments. Toxic toys, on the other hand, are not only porous but can also leach harmful chemicals into the body. PVC and jelly materials are notorious for this.
To ensure safety, it's crucial to choose body-safe sex toys made from non-porous materials. In addition, it is important to choose the right lubricant, as some lubricants can also pose health risks. Due to possible exposure to harmful bacteria, homemade dildos are strongly discouraged.
So what is safe?
Safe sex toys are characterized by being functionally non-porous, which means their surfaces are hard, impermeable, and often hydrophobic, allowing for effective disinfection. These materials are considered safe for long-term contact with mucous membranes (such as genitals and rectum) and skin:
1. Silicone (usually platinum cured)
2. ABS plastic (with or without polyurethane coating)
3. Certain metals, including stainless steel, aluminum and titanium, after appropriate surface treatment
4. Glass, wood, stone and ceramics, as long as they meet certain conditions
Given the prevalence of porous and toxic toys on the market, it is important for consumers to educate themselves on material safety and seek out reputable suppliers, like ours, who offer a curated line of body-safe products.
Sex toy cleaning
Cleaning and disinfecting your sex toys is essential to keeping them safe and hygienic. While sex toy cleaners are often sold on the market, they are not necessarily more effective at disinfecting than a thorough wash with soap and water. However, they can be useful when running water is restricted.
To ensure that your body-safe sex toy is free from any contaminants during manufacturing, packaging or shipping, it is recommended that you sterilize it when you first purchase it. For everyday use, cleaning with soap and water is sufficient, especially if you are the only user and only use the toy in one hole.
Here are guidelines for sterilizing body-safe sex toys:
1. UV Disinfection: Use UV disinfection bags according to manufacturer's instructions. This method exposes toys to short-wave ultraviolet light (UV-C) for about three minutes, which effectively inactivates bacteria and viruses.
2. Boiling: For toys without mechanical parts, boil them in water for three to five minutes, then rinse with clean water after cooling.
3. Dishwasher: If the toy is dishwasher safe and is missing mechanical parts, run it through a sanitize cycle without detergent. Note that this method may not work on soft silicone toys as it can damage the surface.
4. Bleach or rubbing alcohol soak: For a waterproof vibrator, soak it in a solution of 10% bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts tap water) or rubbing alcohol (preferably 70% isopropyl alcohol). Make sure to wash the toy thoroughly before and after to remove any residue.
5. Non-waterproof toys with motors: For toys with motors that are not submersible, please use 10% bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol to wipe the parts in contact with the body. Avoid liquid getting into the motor, charging port, or battery compartment, then wipe with a damp cloth.
To eliminate odors, first wipe down the toy with acetone (pure nail polish remover). If the odor persists, seal the toy in a plastic bag with an enzymatic cleaner designed to remove pet odors. This method ensures complete elimination of odors.
Why do I like silicone?
Silicone is my top choice for body-safe sex toys materials for a number of reasons. Unlike other materials, silicone offers a unique combination of flexibility and softness, avoiding the need for excessive stiffness. It’s worth noting that not all silicone is created equal. For those looking for comfort and a realistic experience, dual-density silicone becomes the best choice. If you’re interested in learning more about silicone dildo hardness, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide on the subject.Silicone toys generally don’t have the strong odor that is common with porous PVC toys. While some people with sensitive noses may detect a faint odor, especially in new toys stored in plastic packaging, the odor usually disappears after the toys are disinfected and dried. Until recently, silicone dildos and other body-safe toys were often considered prohibitively expensive for many consumers. However, I'm pleased to note that this is changing rapidly, making quality options more accessible to more people.